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komondor

The large, powerful Komondor has a highly distinctive white coat where the top coat and undercoat mat together to form long, felt-like cords. Adult dogs average 80cm in height and 50-61kg in weight, and adult females average 70cm and 36-50kg.

Overview

The large, powerful Komondor has a highly distinctive white coat where the top coat and undercoat mat together to form long, felt-like cords. Adult dogs average 80cm in height and 50-61kg in weight, and adult females average 70cm and 36-50kg.

Origin

The Komondor dog is an ancient breed that has been known in his native homeland of Hungary for thousands of years. He arrived in Hungary with the nomadic Magyars for whom he was a flock guardian, and could have descended from the large Ovtcharka, another flock protector, from the Caucasian region of south-west Russia. The Komondor dog's distinctive corded coat would have offered protection not only against the harsh elements but also the fiercest of predators, including wolves.

Personality

A guarding breed, the Komondor is not a breed for everyone and careful thought should be given before buying one. Wary of strangers, he is devoted to his family and will guard and protect them against anything he deems a threat. Early socialisation is essential, together with careful handling throughout his life.

Health

Exercise

About an hour's daily exercise will be needed. He will spend much of his time at home patrolling his boundaries, so ensure all fencing is secure and escape-proof.

Nutrition

Large breed dogs, as well as having large appetites, benefit from a different balance of nutrients including minerals and vitamins compared to smaller-breed dogs. The Komondo is prone to bloating and stomach problems; smaller, more frequent meals can help minimise this risk.

Grooming

The top coat is coarse, and the undercoat is soft. Both coats combine to form cords, which will eventually reach floor level if not trimmed. Checking the dog after a walk is essential, as he does tend to sweep up leaves and twigs wherever he goes! The coat is never brushed – instead the cords are maintained by dividing new hair growth manually, from the skin, every couple of months. New owners must be shown how to do this by the breeder or another breed enthusiast. Cord maintenance is a time-consuming job and should never be neglected or the cords will form huge mats together.